Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and memory of General Amedeo ``Armie'' Merolla--a dedicated patriot, a passionate legal mind, a community leader in Rhode Island, and someone whom I was proud to call a dear friend. Armie's distinguished military career spanned 36 years, during which time he served in the United States Marine Corps and the Rhode Island National Guard. He served as assistant adjutant general for the State and retired as the first brigadier general of Italian heritage in the history of the Rhode Island National Guard. As an accomplished attorney for more than 60 years, he provided legal counsel and advice to several public officials--myself included--and maintained a very successful private practice. As a tireless community leader, he served as chairman of the Warwick School Committee and held leadership positions in local branches of charities and children's organizations. Above all, he prioritized his family, whom he loved dearly and to whom he devoted his life's work. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to remember Armie on the floor today, just as it was to consider him a trusted friend and adviser. Mr. Speaker, he made a difference, and he will be greatly missed. ____________________”